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ATA leadership transition begins with executive 'changes'

Clearing the way for a new leadership team, the American Trucking Assns. on Friday took "a first step," informing its members that three top executives had been let go. Incoming ATA President and CEO Chris Spear, who signed the email, officially takes over from Bill Graves Saturday.

Spear thanked now-former Executive Vice Presidents Dave Osiecki, Karla Hulett and Jeff Mason for their service to the trucking industry and to the association.

“Their hard work on our behalf has made ATA a stronger association and we wish them all well in their future endeavors,” Spear wrote.

Osiecki was EVP and chief of national advocacy; Mason directed ATA communications and public affairs; and Hulett and handled finance and operations as COO.

The changes were announced to staff in a meeting Friday morning.

“Tomorrow is also my first day and I'm excited to get started as your representative,” Spear said in the email. “As we move forward, we will keep you updated on our transition.”

Spear, who previously worked as a lobbyist for ATA , is expected to begin making the rounds and meeting with state affiliate leaders immediately.

“I’m very excited about Chris coming back. The future is bright for the federation,” Shannon Newton, president of the Arkansas Trucking Assn., told Fleet Owner. “A transition is difficult, but changes take place. I have full confidence in Chris. I think his management style is inclusive, and people will want to be on his team.”